"In their heyday the Inca ruled over the largest land empire in the Americas, reaching the pinnacle of South American civilization. Known as the 'Romans of the Americas', these fabulous engineers converted the vertiginous, challenging landscapes of the Andes into a fertile region able to feed millions, alongside building royal estates such as Machu Picchu and a 40,000-kilometre road network crisscrossed by elegant braided-rope suspension bridges. Beautifully illustrated, this book examines the mythical origins and history of the Inca, as well as their economy, society, technology and beliefs. Kevin Lane reconsiders previous theories while proposing new interpretations concerning the timeline of Inca expansion, their political organization and the role of women in their society, while showcasing how their legacy endures today"--Book jacket.